Foxes are becoming a familiar site in urban areas and often visit gardens in order to scavenge any

tasty morsels of food we humans put out in the bins.  They can be a pest in the countryside, raiding

poultry houses leaving dead and dying chickens or ducks.  Lambs too, are frequently killed or injured

by foxes. 

 

This said, a sick or injured fox in pain or suffering will still need our help.

 

It is best to get expert help to an injured fox as they are wild animals and can inflict a serious bite.

If you find one at the side of a road it is likely to be a victim of a road traffic accident.  These should

be reported to the police, a Vet, a wildlife rescue centre or the RSPCA, giving an accurate location.

Only if it is safe for yourself and other road users, you can cover the animal with a blanket and wait

until help arrives.

 

Fox mange is a serious problem.  Animals become very sick and emaciated and suffer a lingering death.

The first signs is a loss of fur.  Their skin, in the latter stages, becomes thickened and crusty with deep

cracks.  If you come across a fox on your property with this problem, it is likely to be in the latter stages

and reluctant to move when approached.  Cover the animal with a blanket and call either a Vet, wildlife

rescue centre or the RSPCA.  These animals will usually need to be humanely destroyed.

 

Should you come across a fox caught in a snare, do not attempt to cut the wire and release the animal

as it will almost certainly have an injury, even if you cannot see it.  The fox will be desperately frightened and

therefore will bite in its defence.  It is best to call an expert. 

 

A farmer or the local hunt may be able to help if a snared or injured fox is found in the countryside.

 

"Orphaned" fox cubs.  Do not interfere with cubs unless injured or in genuine need of help.  In the Spring

the mother will move the cubs from one earth or another.  If disturbed she will come back for the cubs

later.  As summer advances, she may move them above ground where it is cooler.  Vixens have a habit

of lying up away from their cubs, only returning at night to feed them which lead people to believe that the

cubs are orpaned. 

 

Remember, fox cubs may look cute but they are wild animals and are totally unsuitable as domestic pets.